2. You’re Using Only a VPN Extension, Not the App

A browser extension VPN hides your IP in that one browser — but other apps, background services, or even your OS can leak your real IP.

What to do:

• Download and run the desktop VPN app

• Don’t rely on extensions for full privacy

• Confirm full-device protection by checking your IP using a proper test tool

3. Your DNS Requests Are Going Through Your ISP

Even if your IP is masked, your DNS lookups may still go through your internet provider — revealing what websites you visit and even your real location.

What to do:

• Use a VPN with built-in DNS leak protection

• Or manually set DNS to 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 (Google)

• Run a DNS leak test to verify — it takes less than 30 seconds

 Read our full guide on how to fix DNS leaks permanently.

4. You're Using Split Tunneling Instead of Full Tunneling

Split tunneling sends only part of your traffic through the VPN. For example, your VPN might protect your work tools but not your browser or apps.

What to do:

• Make sure your VPN uses full tunnel mode

• If you manage your VPN manually (like OpenVPN), check for redirect-gateway def1 in the config

• Not sure what’s routed? A proper VPN test will show what IP your traffic is really using

5. Your Browser Still Knows Your Location

VPNs hide your IP, but browsers can still get your location using:

• Wi-Fi signals

• GPS

• Past browsing behavior

That’s why Google might still show your city or country — even if your IP looks masked.

What to do:

• Block location access in browser settings

• Use incognito/private mode

• Clear stored permissions or reset browser location history

6. Your VPN Protocol Might Be Causing Leaks

Not all VPN protocols handle disconnections or network changes well. Some leak IPs when reconnecting.

What to do:

• Switch to WireGuard or IKEv2 — both are faster and safer than PPTP or L2TP

• Test again after switching to see if the issue is gone

7. Your Antivirus or Firewall Is Interfering

Sometimes, antivirus tools or firewall software can reroute traffic outside your VPN, especially if they include “web protection” features.

What to do:

• Temporarily disable antivirus/firewall and recheck

• Use a VPN with a kill switch and leak prevention

• Re-enable your firewall after testing your VPN

8. Your Apps Are Bypassing the VPN

Mobile and desktop apps don’t always follow your VPN settings. Messaging, weather, or VoIP apps may still use your local connection.

What to do:

• Use a VPN that offers per-app settings

• Disable GPS/location for those apps

• Keep your VPN on at all times

9. You Haven’t Cleared Past Cookies and Sessions

Sites can identify you from cookies or browser fingerprinting — even without knowing your IP.

What to do:

• Clear your browser cache and cookies

• Use private browsing mode

• Don’t log in to old accounts if you want a clean slate

10. You Might Be Using a Known VPN IP

Some sites check if you’re using a shared IP from a VPN service and flag or block it. This doesn’t reveal your real IP — but it can cause them to act as if they know your location.

What to do:

• Try a different server or country

• Use VPNs that offer rotating or dedicated IPs

• If the problem persists, it might be time to compare VPNs

Tip: Use VPNTest.Pro to compare providers and find one that fits your needs for speed, security, and IP freshness.

11. Mobile Networks Can Break VPN Routing (CGNAT)

If you're using 4G/5G or mobile data, you may be behind Carrier-Grade NAT, which can mess with VPN routing and leak IPs.

What to do:

• Switch to Wi-Fi where possible

• Try a different VPN protocol (WireGuard is great for mobile)

12. Your VPN Might Just Be Bad

Let’s be honest: not all VPNs work well. Free VPNs often leak, log, or fail to encrypt properly.

What to do:

• Run full VPN tests (IP, DNS, WebRTC, speed)

• If your VPN fails, it’s time to switch

UseVPNTest.Pro — it’s free, fast, and shows you everything you need to know in under a minute

• Disable WebRTC

• Block browser location access

• Use the full VPN app (not just the extension)

• Switch to full-tunnel mode

• Use a solid protocol like WireGuard

• Run a full test once you’re connected

• Clear cookies and browsing data

• Check each app individually

• Compare providers if needed

1. How do I know if my VPN is leaking?
Use VPNTest.Pro to run leak tests — it checks IP, DNS, and WebRTC in one go.

2. What’s the difference between split tunnel and full tunnel?
Split tunnel sends only some traffic through the VPN. Full tunnel routes everything — more secure.

3. Why does Google still show my location?
Your browser may be using Wi-Fi or GPS, not your IP. Block geolocation in browser settings.

4. Can apps leak my IP even with a VPN on?
Yes. Some apps bypass VPN settings entirely. Choose VPNs with app-level control.

5. Are free VPNs safe to use?
Usually not. They often log data, leak IPs, or inject ads. Compare better options on VPNTest.Pro.